Jake Oettinger

Jake Oettinger was born on December 18, 1998, in Lakeville, Minnesota. He began his path in ice hockey at an early age, attending Lakeville North High School where he also accelerated his academics. Oettinger then committed to the USA Hockey National Team Development Program (USNTDP) Juniors for the 2014–15 season, playing two seasons with them. Following this, he attended Boston University, where he demonstrated significant potential as a goaltender. During his freshman season at Boston University, Oettinger posted a 2.11 goals-against average and a .927 save percentage. His collegiate performance led to him being recognized as a top prospect for the 2017 NHL entry draft.

The Dallas Stars selected Oettinger in the first round as the 26th overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft. After completing two more seasons at Boston University, he signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Stars on March 25, 2019, and was assigned to their AHL affiliate, the Texas Stars. His professional career saw early challenges but he quickly adapted, making his NHL debut in the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs. Oettinger progressed to become the Stars’ starting goaltender, notably signing an eight-year, $66 million contract with the team on October 17, 2024. He has been recognized as one of the elite goaltenders in the NHL, earning a spot in the top 10 for wins and goals-against average among active goalies since the 2020-21 NHL season.

Throughout his career, Oettinger has accumulated significant achievements, including being named to the United States roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off during the 2024-25 season. He also played in the NHL All-Star Game in 2024. His playoff performances have been particularly noteworthy, with a 1.81 GAA and a .954 save percentage in the 2021-22 playoffs, and making 64 saves in a crucial Game 7 against the Calgary Flames. This level of play has solidified his role as a key player for the Dallas Stars and a respected goaltender in the league.